Tips for managing back-to-school anxiety
Back-to-school anxiety is a common experience for many individuals, both young and old. Children may worry about new teachers, making friends, and facing academic challenges, while parents often grapple with concerns about their children's well-being, academic performance, and the juggling of busy schedules. Recognising that anxiety is a normal response to change is the first step in effectively managing it.
Tips for Parents:
Open Communication: Encourage open conversations with your children about their fears and concerns. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them. Communicate openly with your partner and support network. Sharing your feelings can help you feel supported and understood. You can always go to Mumsnet and vent there!
Establish a Routine: Begin transitioning to a school-year routine a few weeks before term starts. Adjust bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules gradually to help children and yourself adapt - if you can’t manage a few weeks, a few days will also make a difference!
Manage Your Own Anxiety: Children are sensitive to their parents' emotions. Stay positive and calm while discussing school matters to reduce any potential transfer of anxieties.
Positive Visualisation: Both you and your child can imagine positive scenarios in your mind about the new school year. Visualising success can help build confidence and reduce anxiety. Identify your triggers and work at visualising them with calmness.
Practise Deep Breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help calm your nerves and reduce feelings of anxiety. Breathe in slowly through your nose, hold, and then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Stay Organised: Use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and other school activities. Being organised can help you feel more in control.
Plan Relaxation Time: Ensure there's time for you to take a 5 min breather after school run’s and home time. A cup of tea on the patio can do wonders to destress you and give you the silent moment you need to re energise for the rest of the demanding day. If you need more than a cup of tea, then CocoRio is here to step in and help in a way that works for you - 2 hours one afternoon or your regular after school help, you decide.
Tips for Children:
Encourage Open Expression: Remind your child that they can always talk to you, their teachers, or friends about any worries. It's essential for them to share their feelings, so you can offer support and understanding.
Highlight the Positives: Help your child shift their focus from uncertainties to the exciting aspects of the new school year, such as making new friends or diving into new subjects.
Embrace Nature: Spend some time outdoors, whether it's a walk in the park or a day at the beach. Nature has a calming effect and can help clear your mind.
Journal Your Thoughts: Keeping a diary or journal can be a therapeutic way to process your feelings. Write down your thoughts, doodle, or even paste pictures to express yourself.
Stay Active: Physical activity, be it dancing, playing a sport, or just stretching, can help release pent-up energy and reduce feelings of stress.
Creative Outlet with CocoRio: Dive into the world of creativity with CocoRio. Our unique Learning Journey offers age-appropriate activities that include music, movement, art, and languages. Engaging in these creative sessions can be a fantastic way to manage stress and express yourself. Plus, all creative nannies are not just caregivers but also actors, musicians, and artists, ensuring a fun-filled experience!
Mindful Moments: Take a few minutes each day to practise mindfulness. Focus on your breathing, listen to calming music, or try some simple meditation techniques. It can help you stay centred and calm.
Reassure About Seeking Support: Let your child know that if they ever feel overwhelmed, they shouldn't hesitate to seek help from a trusted adult, teacher, or school counsellor. There's always someone ready to support them.
Back-to-school anxiety is a common experience for both children and parents, but with the right strategies and support, it can be managed effectively. By fostering open communication, creating routines, and focusing on the positive aspects of the new school year, parents and children in the UK can transition into the academic year with confidence and ease. Remember, anxiety is a natural response to change, and with patience and understanding, you can help your family overcome it and thrive in the upcoming school year.
CocoRio steps in not just as any nanny service or nanny agency, but as a holistic solution that understands the nuances of modern parenting. Our team of creative professionals offers a unique blend of engaging activities that not only help children manage stress but also ignite their passion for learning. From music to art, every session is tailored to provide a nurturing environment for your child. But our commitment doesn't stop there. We understand the intricacies of school runs, homework, and daily routines. With CocoRio, parents can rest easy knowing that all school-related duties and nanny tasks are in capable hands. It's our way of ensuring that while you recharge, your child thrives in a safe, creative, and supportive setting. Choose CocoRio, where we blend care with creativity, giving you the peace of mind you truly deserve.
